Key result
A single dose of phenobarbital successfully resolved severe tizanidine withdrawal symptoms, including hypertension and tachycardia, allowing for complete discontinuation of tizanidine.
Why the study?
Tizanidine withdrawal poses clinical challenges due to the absence of standardized withdrawal protocols.
Does a one-time dose of phenobarbital improve hemodynamic instability and pain in a patient experiencing tizanidine withdrawal?
Case Report (n=1)
Does a one-time dose of phenobarbital improve hemodynamic instability and pain in a patient experiencing tizanidine withdrawal?
A one-time dose of phenobarbital may safely resolve hemodynamic instability and pain associated with tizanidine withdrawal, facilitating transition to alternative therapies.
Highlights potential hemodynamic instability in tizanidine withdrawal; leaves open optimal management pending controlled trials.
This case report highlights the complexities of tizanidine withdrawal in a 68-year-old woman with chronic pain. Tizanidine, a widely used imidazole-derived muscle relaxant, poses challenges due to the absence of standardized withdrawal protocols. The patient's presentation included hypertension and tachycardia following a gradual reduction in her outpatient tizanidine dose. During the de-escalation of tizanidine, the patient experienced withdrawal symptoms, including severe body aches, hypertension, and tachycardia. Management during withdrawal involved a unique approach using a one-time dose of phenobarbital, a measure that allowed the resolution of hemodynamic instability and pain with complete discontinuation of tizanidine. The ultimate decision to transition the patient to methocarbamol and stop taking tizanidine for pain control highlights the importance of individualized care. The patient has responded to this therapy upon follow-up.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Gil et al. (2024) conducted a case report in Tizanidine withdrawal (n=1). Phenobarbital was evaluated on Resolution of withdrawal symptoms. A single dose of phenobarbital successfully resolved severe tizanidine withdrawal symptoms, including hypertension and tachycardia, allowing for complete discontinuation of tizanidine.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: